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Best lens for an Alaska cruise

Started Jun 21, 2010 | Discussions thread
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yodermk Senior Member • Posts: 1,393
Best lens for an Alaska cruise

So I'm looking at going on an Inside Passage cruise in the summer of 2011. Hope to get 2 or 3 new lenses before then. Need time to budget for this stuff. I currently have an XSi but will probably buy the next announced semipro body with video, even if it's FF.

Long telephoto. I've been intending to get the 400 f/5.6 for quite some time, certainly before I go to Alaska for any reason. But Popular Photography just noted that you'd be better off with the 300 f/4 IS with a 1.4TC. That was surprising as I'd always heard how great the 400 is.

Short telephoto. I've been planning to get the 70-200IS f/4, but I wonder if the 2.8 non-IS would be better. They're about the same cost.

I guess it comes down to IS -- how well does that work for the kinds of things you'd see from the ship, or the hikes? I'm not sure how much boat sway would affect your shots. I suppose IS would help compensate for that if it might be an issue.

I'll bring a tripod (assuming they don't frown on those on the boat).

Also might get a 15-85 to replace the kit lens. Think I finally eliminated the 17-55 from consideration. Only worried about the slow aperture but during the day it should be fine.

Thanks!
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If it's a Single Lens Reflex, why do I need so many lenses?

 yodermk's gear list:yodermk's gear list
Canon EOS 80D Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.5 1-5x Macro +12 more
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